Bujji Ila Raa Movie Review: An intriguing thriller with clever twists

Comedian Dhanraj has turned into a mainstream hero with Bujji Ila Raa. A psychological thriller written by director G Nageswara Reddy, the film traverses a series of brutal kidnappings and killings of eight-year-old girls. These crimes in question pose a challenge to the police department. A newly appointed officer is on the hunt to nab the culprits and will he succeed in his mission forms the crux of Bujji Ila Raa!

The film unfolds in Warangal where a couple of serial kidnappings and heinous murders rock the city. What's more annoying is that the hearts of these murdered children go missing and Keshava (Dhanraj), a Circle Inspector, has been entrusted with the responsibility to catch the mastermind behind these crimes. Although the story is not unique, it manages to create a believable premise with solid characters and logic.

Director: Garudavega Anji
Cast: Dhanraj, Chandini Tamilasaran, Sunil

The first hour starts on a promising note, but director Garudavega Anji took his own sweet time to arrive at the core conflict and what comes across is a mystery that falls prey to melodrama and over-plotting. Halfway through the second half, the film picks up the pace with a genuine sense of tension, suspense, and intrigue. This hour, especially, is animated by unexpected thrills that make for a decent watch, although the last stretch could have been avoided as an attempt to make the film light-hearted.

To an extent, Bujji Ila Raa fails to escape the conventions and falls into the same trap that many of its predecessors did. The film also revels in ghastly violence that breaks out with disturbing, chilling visuals. Adding to it, a few scenes were written in a way that showcases the police officers and department in a negative light. However, you are willing to overlook these flaws because the suspense builds solidly as the layers are peeled one by one to reveal the mystery behind everything. The film keeps you on the edge of the seat to a large extent. 

Of the cast, comedian Dhanraj, in his debut feature as a hero, showed intensity and resolve as the protagonist. In fact, it’s a refreshing change from his recent films, which barely require him to play to the gallery in roles that are author-backed and neatly etched. Other characters like Sunil, Srikanth Iyengar, and Chandini Tamilasaran provide momentum to the narrative and perfectly complement Dhanraj.

Among the technical crew, music composer Sai Kartheek’s background score adds a new layer of emotions to the action crime story. Kartheek’s music is a huge plus and made the proceedings exciting. Garudavega Anji’s cinematography fits the bill.

Overall, Bujji Ila Raa is an engaging thriller that rises above its cliches. The film largely benefits from its solid performances and effective twists and turns. It is definitely a worthy watch for the ones who enjoy watching slow burner suspense thrillers.